Over the next 10-15 years, Lakeside Industries plans to redevelop approximately 30 acres of land to the west of the Issaquah Highlands Park & Ride. The company aims to transform its underutilized land into an active, engaging development where the community can live, work and recreate.
Lakeside Industries has been operating in the Issaquah gravel pit since 1995. Four generations of the Lee family have been involved in the leadership of the business, operating and managing a comprehensive range of asphalt products and services in the region.
In January 2013, Issaquah City Council signed a long-term development agreement with Lakeside Industries for approximately 120 acres of the company’s mining property adjacent to Issaquah Highlands.
The property—located both east and west of Highlands Drive Northwest—was zoned for “mineral resources,” which allowed Lakeside Industries to mine gravel and sand. The development agreement changes the zoning in a portion of the property to “urban village.”
The city’s Comprehensive Plan states that once “mineral resource” activities are done, Issaquah should ensure “adequate reclamation and enhancement of the site.” The area furthest from Issaquah Highlands will continue to have industrial uses into the foreseeable future.
This zoning change enables the city to ensure the land is developed in a manner that is mutually beneficial to the community and Lakeside, while also achieving an efficient use and investment of public and private resources. Additionally, the agreement requires the property to be compatible with Issaquah Highlands.
Sarah Hoey, executive director of the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA), said Lakeside Industries has a professional relationship with the homeowner association since the two properties border each other. The two organizations worked closely together on the newly constructed Westridge and High Street Linear Park projects, she added.
However, the new development is not part of the Issaquah Highlands boundaries. Therefore, it is not subject to IHCA rules and regulations or architectural requirements. The development of any land belonging to Lakeside Industries lies solely with the city of Issaquah.
In 2014, Vue Apartments (otherwise known as Neighborhood A) was completed by another developer on the portion of land to the east of the Issaquah Highlands Park & Ride. Lakeside Industries is currently beginning the master plan for Neighborhoods B, C and D on the western side. The first phase of construction for Neighborhood B is anticipated to start in 2025-26.
Split into three neighborhoods, the new development plans for roughly 1,400 rental units and 100,000 square feet of commercial space. Developers aim to work with the natural terrain to provide public open spaces with trails and bike loops, while also protecting the views of Seattle and surrounding areas.
Lakeside Industries is aware of current challenges around housing affordability and traffic congestion in the area. The agreement with the city accounts for developer-funded mitigations for transportation, infrastructure, public spaces, environmental improvements and affordable housing.
To maintain transparency, Lakeside Industries plans to host additional information sessions in the fall. Learn about upcoming events here. Share your thoughts about the project by taking the survey here. Email comments and questions to feedback@lakesidecommunityoutreach.com.
